I have had second thoughts about using a black background. It's true, black is very hard to see when sewing. I wonder if a black on black or a navy would work just as well.
I have had another thought. I am super slow and since I am 74, I don't see me picking up speed! My book will be here in a couple of days and when it gets here and I have done enough drooling, I think I will start cutting and set up the blocks in little kits. I have other things that I can do in order to practice my applique.
I have done applique before, it's been around 10-12 years. Hopefully it is like riding a bike, it will all come back!
I am so happy this thread has started, I love the fabric that has been shown, it is all so beautiful!
Phyllis